As a self-employed or freelance model, you have the unique opportunity to claim a variety of tax write-offs and deductions. These can significantly reduce your taxable income and increase your take-home pay. Here's a comprehensive list of expenses you can write off.
As a model, you might have to pay commissions to your agency. These are the fees you pay to your agency for getting you work. They're a necessary expense for your career and can be quite hefty, so don't forget to write them off.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 10 of your tax return.
Looking your best is part of the job when you're a model. Expenses for haircuts, makeup, and other beauty services are all part of maintaining your professional image. These costs can add up, so make sure to keep track of them.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a of your tax return.
Whether it's a lunch meeting with a potential client or a dinner with your agency, business meals are a common expense for models. Just remember to keep your receipts and note the business purpose of the meal.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24b of your tax return.
If you're a model who also does some of your own photography, you can write off the cost of your camera equipment. This includes cameras, lenses, tripods, and other related gear. It's a picture-perfect deduction!
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 22 of your tax return.
If you use your car for work-related travel, you can deduct the cost of car insurance and registration. This includes trips to photo shoots, auditions, and meetings with clients or your agency.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 15 of your tax return.
Keeping your car in top shape is crucial if you're using it for work. You can deduct the cost of regular maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and other necessary repairs.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 9 of your tax return.
If you've purchased a car primarily for work use, you can write off a portion of the cost. You can also claim depreciation, which is a deduction that accounts for the car's loss in value over time.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 13 of your tax return.
Modeling classes, acting lessons, and other professional development courses can all be written off. These expenses help you improve your skills and increase your earning potential, making them a smart investment.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a of your tax return.
Headshots are a model's calling card. They can be expensive, but they're a necessary business expense. Whether you're updating your portfolio or submitting photos to a new agency, you can write off the cost.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 8 of your tax return.
If you have a home office where you conduct business, you can write off the cost of furniture and other office equipment. This includes desks, chairs, lamps, and other items that make your workspace functional and comfortable.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18 of your tax return.
When you're traveling for work, your meals can be written off. This includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and any snacks in between. Just remember to keep your receipts and note the business purpose of the trip.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24a of your tax return.
Parking fees can add up, especially if you're driving to auditions or photo shoots in the city. Keep track of these expenses and write them off at the end of the year.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a of your tax return.
As a model, your phone is likely a crucial tool for your business. You can write off the cost of your phone, your monthly service plan, and any necessary accessories like a protective case or extra charger.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a of your tax return.
If you edit your own photos, the cost of your editing software can be written off. This includes subscriptions to services like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 18 of your tax return.
If you use part of your home for your business, you can write off a portion of your power bill. This is calculated based on the size of your home office compared to the total size of your home.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Form 8829 of your tax return.
If you have property insurance for your home office, you can write off a portion of the cost. This includes insurance for fire, theft, and other types of damage.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Form 8829 of your tax return.
If you've made repairs to your home office, you can write off the cost. This includes anything from fixing a leaky roof to repainting the walls.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 21 of your tax return.
If you're driving for work and encounter toll roads, you can write off these costs. Keep your receipts and note the business purpose of the trip.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 27a of your tax return.
Whether you're taking a taxi to a photo shoot or flying to a modeling gig, your transportation costs can be written off. This includes airfare, bus fare, train tickets, and other forms of public transportation.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24a of your tax return.
If you're traveling for work and need to stay overnight, you can write off the cost of your hotel room or other lodging. Just remember to keep your receipts and note the business purpose of the trip.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 24a of your tax return.
If you have a tool kit for your vehicle that you use for work, you can write off the cost. This includes items like a tire inflator, jumper cables, and other emergency supplies.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 22 of your tax return.
If you use part of your home for your business, you can write off a portion of your water bill. This is calculated based on the size of your home office compared to the total size of your home.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Form 8829 of your tax return.
As a model, you likely rely on the internet for everything from submitting photos to communicating with clients. You can write off a portion of your Wi-Fi bill based on how much you use it for work.
How to write it off: Report these expenses on Schedule C, Box 25 of your tax return.